About Those Hunts in Zimbabwe's National Parks

Published: February - 2013

In Zimbabwe, I am hearing that some hunting operators are still offering elephant hunts in the national parks. Should you come across one of these, here's what you need to know: Hunting in the parks can only be conducted with a signed letter from the Director General of Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife, and technically may only be done for scientific, educational or research purposes.

Trophy elephant are NOT allowed to be taken. If you participate in one of these hunts, understand that the ivory is NOT exportable either. If the operator tells you he can get an export permit for you, he is doing so illegally. Period.

If you are an American citizen and you import an elephant trophy illegally taken under these circumstances you will be in violation of the Lacey Act and subject to breath-taking fines, imprisonment and the loss of your rights to own firearms. Enough said.